EMS Certification and Licensure

You can use the DSHS online licensing service to apply for an initial, renewal, or upgraded certification/licensure. You can also use the service to update you address.

Register as a new user. If you have previously registered using this system, it is not necessary to create another user registration to submit a new application.

• Carefully select the link to the electronic application for your certification or licensure level and type. 
• If you submit the wrong application, your certification/license will be delayed. 
• Expect electronic application processing to take about 4 to 6 weeks. 

Available certification/licensure types

EMS Personnel

Educators

Education Programs

Providers

Additional Services

• Reciprocity (all levels) 
  • Out-of-state certified only, non-Texas certified.
• Upgrade certification/licensure.

Applications

Applications for the following actions can be found on our applications and forms page:

• EMS Personnel
  • Name change
  • EMS Criminal History Pre-Screening
• EMS Providers
  • Initial EMS provider agency application
  • Vehicle additions and exchanges
  • Changing information on an EMS Provider or First Responder License

Application Processing 

Application processing can take up to 30 days. It may take longer during certain times of the year such as holidays.

Most applications are approved, or a deficiency notice is sent within 10 days of submission. If you have not received your license or a deficiency notice within 30 days, you should contact our office.

Here's how to get licensed as quickly as possible:

The licensing team is committed to helping you get your certification as fast as possible.

• Complete the process online by applying when you have your NREMT certification and on the same day as your fingerprint background check appointment. Always list @dshs.texas.gov and @partner.hhs.texas.gov in your safe sender list.
• Please use a laptop or desk top computer when applying.
• When submitting a payment, allow the system time to process your transaction before you leave or close the page.

Things to keep in mind:

• The online licensing system will accept your application once the payment is complete, or you identify yourself as a volunteer, veteran, military member, or spouse.
• Failure to respond to a deficiency notice causes delays for most applicants. Remember, check your spam/junk folders.
• Applicants with a criminal background may now use the online system to request a prescreen evaluation before enrolling in an EMS course.

EMS license certificates and wallet cards are available three days after approval in the secure mailbox within your online account.

Here's how to ensure a smooth renewal:

Your renewal application will open six months before your license expires. The department does not send renewal notices, so please keep track of your expiration date. When applying, review your renewal option closely and ensure you have met the requirements before completing the process. (View Texas Administrative Code 157.38) In most cases the system will renew your license automatically. If you select volunteer, please upload a new verification with your application. If you have not received your certification or a deficiency notice within 30 days, you should contact our office.

 Things to keep in mind:

• Incorrect account information is the biggest problem when renewing. keep your account information current.
• If you use an employer’s email address, remember to update your account if you change employers.
• Please do not wait until the end of the month or days before your license expires to log in to your account.

Assistance

Contact the EMS certification group for assistance:

• Change EMS personnel status to inactive.
• Military personnel who have expired while deployed and are returning may need to regain EMS certification.

Personnel Name Changes

Name changes must be submitted using the name change form and accompanied by legal proof of the change such as a marriage license, court order, or other form of government-issued identification. No fee is required, and a new card will be sent to your DSHS account secure mailbox once approved. A name change should be completed before renewing your certification or license.  

If you have questions, or to send the completed form, please email us at EMSCert@dshs.texas.gov.

Currently, EMS Personnel, EMS Educators, and EMD Instructors may use a third party to make payment on their individual license. For all other license types, only the licensee will be able to make payment on their individual license. Notice of Provider Third Party Pay Option

If you are the third-party payer who received an email that an application was sent to you for third party payment, you will find the third party payment referral on the Main Menu under Additional Activities > Pay for Online Applications.